We’ve all been there: Your day is going smoothly and then—ouch—you’ve broken a nail. Upon closer examination, your cuticles are looking a little rough and, on top of that, you’ve got a hangnail that just snagged on your favourite sweater. Sigh, it looks like it’s time to pencil in a manicure. But let’s be real: Getting your nails back to an Insta-worthy state can feel tiresome.
Thankfully, Manucurist founder Gaëlle Lebrat Personnaz created a solution that puts the health of your nails first without sacrificing style. After years of overhearing common frustrations from clients at her mother’s Parisian nail salon, she was inspired to design a line of green and clean gel polish alternatives and pampering after-care products that work synergistically to make the process of painting your nails feel exactly how it should: refreshing, relaxing and oh-so chic.
With her well-manicured finger on the pulse of the fashion and beauty industry, Gaëlle spoke to us about trends for 2025. Thanks to Manucurist’s lineup, you can easily achieve the latest looks on your own, without sacrificing your nail health. It’s time to light your favourite candle, engage your chill-out playlist and get ready to bring your nails into the New Year.
Balance Style with Comfort
In terms of nail art, Gaëlle reports that bold looks inspired by niche subcultures will be trending, with hand-painted designs or even mini spikes and studs. That said, she is aware that over-the-top styles aren’t for everyone. “We’re also expecting pastel shades like soft green and baby blue to remain trendy, as they bring a gentle and refreshing touch to nails.” For those who favour a subtler look, fresh and glowy
nails that evoke minimalism will be just as sought-after. “In the end, the most important thing is self-expression,” says Gaëlle.
Texture Takeover
While nail art will continue to have its moment, varying textures and finishes will bring new life to classic shades. “Think: glazed effect on a red manicure,” says Gaëlle, with new jelly finishes creating a mouthwatering candy apple look. Meanwhile, timeless white can be modernized with a light-catching pearlescent finish like Manucurist’s Green Polish in Moon.
Inspiration Is Everywhere
The runways of Paris and New York continue to provide eye candy for all corners of the beauty world, but social media is the new guidebook for nails. The Instagram feeds of stars like Selena Gomez, Dua Lipa and Hailey Bieber (glazed donut nails, anyone?) offer up #manimonday inspo, while nail artists and DIY design lovers alike take to reels and TikTok to share their looks, making must-try manicures “more accessible and easy to follow for everyone,” says Gaëlle.
Shaping Up
The almond style continues to be a popular and flattering shape thanks to its elongating effect, but Gaëlle says we’ll see a resurgence of short-and-square looks thanks to their clean and modern lines. Whichever you choose, keep everything smooth and snag-free with Manucurist’s Emery Boards and Buffers.
Perfect Your Prep
Whether you’re opting for an intricate or minimalistic look, Gaëlle says, “The key to maintaining a fresh manicure is preparation and aftercare.” Start by gently degreasing your nails with Manucurist’s Nail Polish Remover and always use a Base Coat to protect your nails and enhance the longevity of your polish.
Maintenance Matters
For nails that look “day one” fresh, Gaëlle recommends topping up your manicure with the super-glossy Top Coat Sunshine. Once that’s dry, a daily application of Manucurist’s Huile Verte Cuticle Oil is ideal for post-mani maintenance. Massage a few drops into your nail beds to prevent roughness, and follow up with the nourishing Rose Hand Cream to keep your skin and nails in top condition.
